Refreshing Quinoa Salad for Summer Meals

Healthy Quinoa Salad for Your Summer Table

Are you ready to elevate your summer meals with a refreshing and nutritious dish? This delightful quinoa salad with chicken and seasonal vegetables is not only delicious but also packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it provides all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle maintenance and overall wellness, making this dish a great choice for anyone, especially those managing their weight during menopause.

Ingredients You Need

To serve two people, gather the following ingredients:

• 150g quinoa

• 250g chicken breast, diced

• 1 medium courgette, diced

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped

• 100g cherry tomatoes, halved

• 50g fresh spinach

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Method and Equipment

To prepare this scrumptious salad, you’ll need a medium pot, a frying pan, and a mixing bowl. Let’s get cooking!

1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 400ml of water to a boil, then add the quinoa. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. While the quinoa is cooking, heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and cooked through, around 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In the same frying pan, toss in your courgette and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

4. Once the quinoa has cooled down, combine it with the sautéed chicken and vegetables in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finally, mix in fresh spinach and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

This quinoa salad is not only vibrant and tasty, but it's also high in fibre which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, the minerals found in quinoa, magnesium, and phosphorus are critical for bone health.

To complement your meal, consider enjoying a refreshing glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or mint and plenty of ice. This tasty non-alcoholic drink balances out the savoury flavours of the salad and keeps you hydrated in the summer heat.

Enjoy your nutritious, delicious quinoa salad!